Inflatable Garment

ABSTRACT

A garment having a first layer of fabric and a second layer of fabric at least partially coupled together via adhesive to form a plurality of cavities where each cavity is configured to receive air. The garment can further include a valve in fluid communication with at least one air cavity of the plurality of cavities and is configured to inflate the plurality of cavities to a target volume.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit under 35 USC § 119(e) of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 63/171,080 filed 6 Apr. 2021, theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference as if set forthherein in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not Applicable

SEQUENCE LISTING

Not Applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR OR A

JOINT INVENTOR

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to inflatable garments, and morespecifically to a multi-layered garment configured to be variablyinflated and deflated to provide comfort and insulation.

2. Description of Related Art

Cold weather can be undesirable and even dangerous for individuals,particularly refugees, soldiers, campers, and the homeless population.Without adequate insulation during such cold weather, individuals canpotentially endanger their lives by entering a state of hypothermia.Additionally, rain, sleet, snow, and other forms of precipitation canintensify the dangers of cold weather.

Traditionally, jackets, coats, and other pieces of garments can be wornto provide insulation and warmth. These traditional garments can be downjackets, commonly known as “puffer jackets”. Such puffer jackets can bea quilted coat including one or more cavities commonly filled with airand/or feathers to provide insulation to users.

However, such puffer jackets are typically inflated to a predeterminedvolume of air and cannot be variably manipulated depending on the needand/or desire for more or less insulation. Similarly, such pufferjackets cannot be deflated when insulation is not necessary. Without theability to deflate, the puffer jacket can be a burden for a user tocarry when the puffer jacket is not worn, as the puffer jacket cannot beeasily folded into a confined compartment or portable bag.

Further, many garments can be conventionally manufactured via sewingalong the seams. However, sewing along the seams can require a surplusof thread, thereby producing undesired waste. Additionally, the cost ofproduction associated with garments manufactured via sewing, as well asthe manufacturing time, can be relatively high as compared to otheralternative manufacturing means such as the use of adhesives.

Thus, a need yet exists for a multi-layered garment configured to bevariably inflated and deflated to provide comfort, insulation orprotection to a wearer. It is to such a garment and method of making agarment that the present invention is primarily directed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the need for insulation and cushioningin garment form through inflation. It is an inflatable (and reversible)garment (a jacket) that can be used for heat, safety and/or comfort.This creates a market for portable, wearable inflationapparatus/garments like air-mattresses, on-the-go safety cushioning, andalternative stuffing to garments like puffer-jackets. These inflatablegarments can help individuals like the homeless, refugees, campers,soldiers, and motorcyclists. This apparatus also reduces the need forsewing in the garment industry because seams would be attached to eachother through alternative methods of adhesion instead of thread. Thesefactors create viable ergonomic, economic and eco-friendly avenues toexplore in the fashion, garment, and textile industries.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a garment comprisesa layer of a first material and a layer of a second material, the layerof the first material and the layer of the second material being atleast partially coupled together via adhesive to form a plurality ofcavities, each cavity configured to receive air, and a valve in fluidcommunication with at least one cavity of the plurality of air cavities,the valve configured to inflate at least a portion of the plurality ofcavities to a target volume.

The first material and the second material can be the same material. Thefirst material and the second material can be different materials.

One or both of the first material and the second material can be afabric.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first material is a fabric and the sameas the second material, so that the above-described “layer of the firstmaterial and the layer of the second material” are more aptly termed “afirst layer of a fabric and a second layer of the fabric.”

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a garmentcomprises a first material, a second material, and a valve, wherein thefirst material and the second material are cooperatively configured suchthat at least a portion of the first material is coupled to at least aportion of the second material at one or more locations, wherein the oneor more locations of coupling form cavities between the first materialand the second material, the cavities configured for inflation anddeflation of media, and wherein the valve is in media communication withat least one of the cavities and is configured to inflate or deflate atleast a portion of the cavities to a target volume.

The first material can be a first layer of a fabric. The second materialcan be a second layer of the fabric. The first layer of fabric and thesecond layer of fabric can be coupled at locations via the applicationof an adhesive to one or both of the first layer and the second layer,where locations are adhesively coupled.

The media can be air, or other gases or forms of media. The media can besupplied by the user, via breathes, or can be supplied by othermedia-providing apparatus.

At least one of the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabriccan be substantially fluid-impermeable.

The garment can further comprise a heat reflective layer. The heatreflective layer can be in thermal communication with the second layerof fabric, or the second layer of fabric altogether.

The cavities can be arranged in a predetermined pattern formed bylocations in which the adhesive is applied between the first and thesecond layers.

The predetermined pattern can correspond to the cavities having asubstantially rectangular shape.

The target volume can be based at least in part on an ambienttemperature.

The garment can be a jacket.

The valve can be configured for manual inflation of the mediatherethrough.

The valve can be positioned in a location accessible to the user.

The first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric can be coupledtogether to form a main body and two arm sleeves.

The valve can be configured for inflation of the media therethrough, andin some instances, the media is not supplied by the user.

In another exemplary embodiment, the present invention is a method ofmanufacturing an inflatable garment comprising forming a plurality ofinflatable portions from a first layer of a fabric and a second layer ofthe fabric, providing an inflation means to at least one of theinflatable portions, and assembling the plurality of inflatable portionsinto an inflatable garment.

The forming of the plurality of inflatable portions can comprise cuttinga sheet of the fabric into the plurality of portions based at least inpart on an intended use of the inflatable garment, applying adhesive ina predetermined pattern on at least one of the first layer of fabric andthe second layer of fabric of the plurality of portions, and joining thefirst layer of fabric to the second layer of fabric to form theplurality of inflatable portions.

Assembling the plurality of inflatable portions into an inflatablegarment can comprise sewing, bonding and/or fastening together theplurality of inflatable portions, and in a fashion that maintains theability to remain inflated until deflation is desired.

The method can further comprise cutting an opening into the first layerof fabric, the opening being sized to receive the inflation meanscomprising a valve.

The method can further comprise uniting one or more borders of the firstlayer of fabric and the second layer of fabric.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method ofmanufacturing a garment comprises providing a sheet of fabric having afirst layer and a second layer, cutting the sheet of fabric into aplurality of portions based at least in part on an intended use of theinflatable garment, applying adhesive in a predetermined pattern on atleast one of the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric ofeach portion of the plurality of portions, joining the first layer offabric to the second layer of fabric of each portion of the plurality ofportions to form a plurality of air cavities, affixing a valve to thefirst layer of fabric on at least one portion of the plurality ofportions, and sewing together the plurality of portions, wherein thesewing can occur in the areas where adhesion is applied so as tomaintain an air-tight water and air impermeable seal.

The method can further comprise cutting an opening into the first layerof fabric, the opening being sized to receive the valve.

The method can further comprise heating one or more borders of the firstlayer of fabric and the second layer of fabric. The heating can include“heat seaming” or “heat welding,” in order to unite (two or morethermoplastic or heat-activated surfaces) by heat and pressure to make aseam, closure, or attachment. Applying heat to a fabric that is notheat-sealable may not be beneficial, as it might not weld it togetherbut only burn it. As such, instead of heating, other connection meanslike adhesives and fasteners that maintain an airtight seal can be used.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an inflatablegarment is produced by a process comprising providing a sheet of fabrichaving a first layer and a second layer, cutting the sheet of fabricinto a plurality of portions based at least in part on an intended useof the inflatable garment, applying adhesive in a predetermined patternon at least one of the first layer of fabric and the second layer offabric of each portion of the plurality of portions, joining the firstlayer of fabric to the second layer of fabric of each portion of theplurality of portions to form a plurality of air cavities, affixing avalve to the first layer of fabric on at least one portion of theplurality of portions, and sewing together the plurality of portions.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the presentinflatable and reversible garment is based on blowing air into one ormore airtight cavities to allow the garment to expand in size and shape.The structure of creation is a hybrid between creating water inflatablesand garments.

Firstly, an appropriate water-impermeable fabric is chosen and cut intwo-ply. The fabric is cut according to the desired stencil, which caninclude an inlet or opening for valve or pump placement to inflate thegarment. An adhesive can be applied on one or both pieces of the fabric;in a pattern that is conducive to forming cavities with communicativeairflow. The pattern can be chosen in many designs or formations thatenable the cavities to fill up with air (and deflate). Moreover, thepattern can facilitate in shaping the implement for its intended use,through creating seams, folds, shaped cavities, etc. in the fabric.

Additionally, the adhesive pattern can be applied on one layer of thefabric, while a mirror image of the same pattern can be applied to theother. This is done so that the adhesive patterns substantially overlapwhen the fabrics are layered (with the adhesive sides pointing inwards).By increasing the surface area and—in some cases—the thickness of theadhesive overlap, you may create a stronger seam in the garment, capableof bearing more weight, withstanding more pressure, thickening thematerial, etc.

In an alternative approach, the implement can be cut out of a fabric or(flexible) material that is completely coated in adhesive and/orwater-impermeable substance. Additionally, the fabric or material can bewoven to become water-impermeable. According to the type of adhesivecoating chosen, the layers of fabric may be bonded through physical orchemical activation processes such as heating or applying a (chemical)solution.

In a next step, the two (mirrored) pieces of fabric with (lined-up)adhesive patterns are bonded to each other with added physical orchemical means, such as (heat) pressing or using a catalyst, accordingto the type of adhesion used. In the case of completely coated fabrics,as in the case of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) coated ripstop, forexample, there are multiple means to bond the material.

One of the means can be to heat press the two pieces of the fabric at,for example, 90°−130° C. Both pieces of fabric can be placed with theTPU coated layer pointing inwards, with a press-type heating element,similar to a branding iron or waffle-iron. The pressure and temperatureof said element can then heat-weld the aforementioned adhesion patternbetween the layers of fabric. Alternately, the fabric layers could beultrasonically welded to each other.

Alternatively, an extruded plate of said pattern can be placedunderneath the two coated fabrics (with the coated layer pointinginwards). This plate can be shaped out of a material that can withstandhigh temperatures without deforming such as various metals, alloys orceramics. Afterwards, heat and pressure can be applied over the fabricpieces and the extruded plate. Thus, the pattern should be weldedbetween the fabrics from the pressure and heat applied over the raisedbevels of the plate.

Another means of preparing the substantially water-impermeable fabriccould be to spray or apply adhesive on one or both pieces in theaforementioned pattern. This adhesive pattern can be bonded, seamed oractivated as previously stated: through heat, chemical activation, etc.

Alternatively, one can cut the pattern in a non-stick or Teflon® coatedsheet and secure it between two pieces of coated material, such as TPUcoated ripstop. Afterwards, the three layers can be ironed or heatpressed at 90°−130° C. (or whatever temperature or activation methodthat creates a suitable bond without damaging the material). Thus, theonly portions bonded should be the negative of the pattern where thenon-stick sheet was absent. In this process, it is preferable that thenon-stick stencil be removed with a solvent that will not affect theadhesive or the fabric, or simply by pulling out the stencil.

Other means of preparing the substantially fluid-impermeable inflatablegarment could include additive manufacturing processes like 3D printing,where the garment—of its plurality of portions, plurality of cavities influid communication and its seams—are “printed” and fused according todeposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), and/or selectivelaser sintering. Accordingly, the garment can be “printed” in anyflexible material that the 3D printer can deposit. The garment caneither be printed as a whole or in a plurality of portions to beassembled through sewing, adhesion or with fasteners.

One or more valves and pumps can be secured to the garment. If manual orautomatic pumps (battery-powered, hand pumps or CO₂ canisters with atriggering mechanism) are chosen to be attached, it is preferable thatthey are placed in a separate compartment with inlets to the inflatablecavities and sealable outlets for pressure or deflation. Thesecompartments can be designed into the patterns prepared in the methodspreviously stated. The pumps can be secured in compartments throughbonding or with fabric fasteners. Whichever method is chosen could takeinto consideration the airtight seal of the compartment and the garmentas a whole. In the case that the pump requires an outlet for deflation,stoppers can be incorporated to keep air from flowing out of theimplement when it is inflated.

For manual inflation, a free-flow valve or non-return valve can bebonded to the garment. If the valves are made of polymers similar to theadhesive chosen, they could be bonded to the material as in the stepshighlighted previously. The valves, which are similar to those used infloaters, could have at least a 1.5″ circular radius of excess materialsurrounding them. The valve can then be bonded to the fabric from aboveor below. For example, a (preferably) water-impermeable adhesive couldbe applied on the excess material, and glued within a hole, inlet or cutmade in the outer layer of the material. With the valve pointing upwardsout of the hole, the inner layer of the fabric will now be bonded to thetop layer (excess material) of the valve.

Next, the pieces should be made airtight by sealing the borders of thegarments according to the intended seam allowance (0.5″-1.5″ accordingto manufacturing standards) for when sewing the product in the finalsteps.

After the valves are placed and the airtight seals are created, thegarment is assembled by sewing together the various pieces of thegarment design. In order for the garment to stay airtight, it should besewn in the areas where the two layers of fabric were bonded together.Otherwise, alternative sewing or assembly technologies can be used tocreate or attach the plurality of inflatable portions to each otherwithout impairing the airtight seals of each portion.

At this point, the garment could be made reversible by sewing on orsecuring a secondary fabric, preferably an insulation/“warmth”technology fabric, on the reverse side of the garment.

The sewing portion of the design can be changed to accommodate differentstyles of jackets, different attachments, uses, embellishments, andfasteners like zippers, Velcro®, buttons, and so on. The garment can beencased in as many layers as desired, but a single cavity with valveaccess is needed to create the inflatable portion.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more apparent upon reading the followingspecification in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying Figures, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate several aspects described below.

FIG. 1A is a front view of an inflatable garment in a deflated state, inaccordance with the disclosed technology.

FIG. 1B is a side view of the inflatable garment in the deflated state,in accordance with the disclosed technology.

FIG. 1C is a cross-section view of a portion of the inflatable garmentin the deflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

FIG. 2A is a front view of the inflatable garment in an inflated state,in accordance with the disclosed technology.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the inflatable garment in the inflatedstate, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

FIG. 2C is a cross-section view of a portion of the inflatable garmentin the inflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate example patterns in which adhesive is applied tocreate a plurality of air cavities, in accordance with the disclosedtechnology.

FIG. 4 illustrates a user inflating the inflatable garment via a valve,in accordance with the disclosed technology.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example use of the inflatable garment, inaccordance with the disclosed technology.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart outlining a method of manufacturing an inflatablejacket, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Examples of the present disclosure relate to an inflatable garmentincluding a plurality of air cavities configured to be variably inflatedand deflated based at least in part on the need and/or desire for moreor less insulation, cushioning (for comfort or safety) or flotation. Thegarment can comprise a layer of a first material and a layer of a secondmaterial, the layer of the first material and the layer of the secondmaterial being at least partially coupled together via adhesive to forma plurality of cavities, each cavity configured to receive air, and avalve in fluid communication with at least one cavity of the pluralityof air cavities, the valve configured to inflate at least a portion ofthe plurality of cavities to a target volume. The valve can beconfigured to receive air (e.g. from a user blowing air into the valveor other mechanisms) such that the plurality of cavities can inflate toa target volume.

The first material and the second material can be the same material. Thefirst material and the second material can be different materials. Oneor both of the first material and the second material can be a fabric.In an exemplary embodiment, the first material is a fabric and the sameas the second material, so that the above-described “layer of the firstmaterial and the layer of the second material” are more aptly termed “afirst layer of a fabric and a second layer of the fabric.”

To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of thedisclosed technology, various illustrative examples are explained below.In particular, the presently disclosed subject matter is described inthe context of being an inflatable jacket. Examples of the presentdisclosure, however, are not limited to the inflatable jacket and can beapplicable in other forms and contexts. Other applications can include,for example, inflatable vests, pants, shirts, socks, gloves,undergarments, and the like. Other applications can further be outsideof the garment field and can include many constructs where variableinflation can be advantageous, including, but not limited to, bags,technology device cases (e.g., computer cases, mobile device cases, andthe like), air mattresses, and sleeping bags. These examples arecontemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly,when the present disclosure is described in the context of an electricutility, it will be understood that other examples can take the place ofthose referred to.

It must also be noted that, as used in the specification and theappended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include pluralreferences unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example,reference to a component is intended also to include composition of aplurality of components. References to a composition containing “a”constituent is intended to include other constituents in addition to theone named. In other words, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” do not denotea limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of “at leastone” of the referenced item.

As used herein, the term “and/or” may mean “and,” it may mean “or,” itmay mean “exclusive-or,” it may mean “one,” it may mean “some, but notall,” it may mean “neither,” and/or it may mean “both.” The term “or” isintended to mean an inclusive “or.”

Also, in describing the exemplary embodiments, terminology will beresorted to for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each termcontemplates its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in theart and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similarmanner to accomplish a similar purpose. It is to be understood thatembodiments of the disclosed technology may be practiced without thesespecific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures,and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure anunderstanding of this description. References to “one embodiment,” “anembodiment,” “example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “certainembodiments,” “various embodiments,” etc., indicate that theembodiment(s) of the disclosed technology so described may include aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not everyembodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in one embodiment”does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may.

Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” or“substantially” one particular value and/or to “about” or“approximately” or “substantially” another particular value. When such arange is expressed, other exemplary embodiments include from the oneparticular value and/or to the other particular value. Further, the term“about” means within an acceptable error range for the particular valueas determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend inpart on how the value is measured or determined, i.e., the limitationsof the measurement system. For example, “about” can mean within anacceptable standard deviation, per the practice in the art.Alternatively, “about” can mean a range of up to ±20%, preferably up to±10%, more preferably up to ±5%, and more preferably still up to ±1% ofa given value. Alternatively, the term can mean within an order ofmagnitude, preferably within 2-fold, of a value. Where particular valuesare described in the application and claims, unless otherwise stated,the term “about” is implicit and in this context means within anacceptable error range for the particular value.

Throughout this disclosure, various aspects of the disclosure can bepresented in a range format. It should be understood that thedescription in range format is merely for convenience and brevity andshould not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of thedisclosure. Accordingly, the description of a range should be consideredto have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well asindividual numerical values within that range. For example, descriptionof a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specificallydisclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numberswithin that range, for example, 1, 2, 2.7, 3, 4, 5, 5.3, and 6. Thisapplies regardless of the breadth of the range.

By “comprising” or “containing” or “including” is meant that at leastthe named compound, element, particle, or method step is present in thecomposition or article or method, but does not exclude the presence ofother compounds, materials, particles, method steps, even if the othersuch compounds, material, particles, method steps have the same functionas what is named.

Throughout this description, various components may be identified havingspecific values or parameters, however, these items are provided asexemplary embodiments. Indeed, the exemplary embodiments do not limitthe various aspects and concepts of the present disclosure as manycomparable parameters, sizes, ranges, and/or values may be implemented.The terms “first,” “second,” and the like, “primary,” “secondary,” andthe like, do not denote an order, quantity, or importance, but ratherare used to distinguish one element from another.

It is noted that terms like “specifically,” “preferably,” “typically,”“generally,” and “often” are not utilized herein to limit the scope ofthe claimed disclosure or to imply that certain features are critical,essential, or even important to the structure or function of the claimeddisclosure. Rather, these terms are merely intended to highlightalternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in aparticular embodiment of the present disclosure. It is also noted thatterms like “substantially” and “about” are utilized herein to representthe inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to anyquantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “50 mm” is intended to mean“about 50 mm.”

It is also to be understood that the mention of one or more method stepsdoes not preclude the presence of additional method steps or interveningmethod steps between those steps expressly identified. Similarly, it isalso to be understood that the mention of one or more components in acomposition does not preclude the presence of additional components thanthose expressly identified.

The materials described hereinafter as making up the various elements ofthe present disclosure are intended to be illustrative and notrestrictive. Many suitable materials that would perform the same or asimilar function as the materials described herein are intended to beembraced within the scope of the disclosure. Such other materials notdescribed herein can include, but are not limited to, materials that aredeveloped after the time of the development of the disclosure, forexample. Any dimensions listed in the various drawings are forillustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Otherdimensions and proportions are contemplated and intended to be includedwithin the scope of the disclosure.

The components described hereinafter as making up various elements ofthe disclosed technology are intended to be illustrative and notrestrictive. Many suitable components that would perform the same orsimilar functions as the components described herein are intended to beembraced within the scope of the disclosed technology. Such othercomponents not described herein can include, but are not limited to,similar components that are developed after development of the presentlydisclosed subject matter.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent likeelements, example embodiments of the present disclosure are hereindescribed. FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of an inflatable garment 100in a deflated state and FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of theinflatable garment 100 in the deflated state. As illustrated in FIGS. 1Aand 1B, the inflatable garment 100 can be a jacket 110 (e.g., parka,coat, raincoat, and the like), however, such construct shall beconstrued as non-limiting. The inflatable garment 100 can bemanufactured and/or constructed as many pieces of outwear, pants, socks,gloves, undergarments and the like. Solely for conciseness ofdisclosure, the inflatable garment 100 is represented as an inflatablejacket 110.

The inflatable garment 100 can include a main body 122 and two armsleeves 124. The inflatable garment 100 can optionally include a hood126 (FIG. 5) that is removably attachable to a collar 128. Theinflatable garment 100 can include an attachment means 130 (e.g., azipper, one or more buttons, Velcro®, or the like) configured tosubstantially close the main body 122 of the inflatable garment 100.Several means of attachment 130 can be used to attach the severalelements of the garment 100 to various portions, like the hood 126 tothe collar 128, the entirety of the length of the garment 100 closed,useful to “close” pockets and the like, and other examples. The means ofattachment can include, for example, different types of mechanisms,instruments and mediums. Optionally, the attachment means 130 used toclose the entirety of the length of the garment 100 can be affixed on apiece of fabric (or cover) 142.

The inflatable garment 100 can further include one or more pockets 144.Optionally, the one or more pockets 144 can be positioned on the mainbody 122 at approximately waist or hip height of a user. Optionally, theone or more pockets 144 can be positioned on the main body 122 atapproximately the upper chest of a user. A bottom portion 100B of themain body 122 can include one or more slits 146. The slits 146 can bepositioned at approximately each side of the main body 122 asillustrated in FIG. 1A. A slit 146 can additionally be positioned toalign with approximately a center of a back of a user as illustrated inFIG. 1B. The one or more slits 146 can provide comfort, flexibility, andmobility for the user.

The inflatable garment 100 can further include an inlet/outlet system150 useful to inflate/deflate the inflatable garment 100. In anexemplary embodiment, the inlet/outlet system 150 can include aplurality of valves 152. The valve 152 can be configured to direct airinto air cavities 154 (FIG. 1C) of the inflatable garment 100 andrelease air from the air cavities 154 of the inflatable garment 100 asfurther discussed herein.

While some exemplary embodiments including inflation with air, thecavity technology allows for many types of media to be used fordifferent use cases. For example, the cavities can be “inflated” with agel for physiotherapy, and/or water for comfort or safety, and/or heliumfor buoyancy, among other options.

Alternatively, the compartments made through the patterns can be usedfor storage if there are appropriate inlets in the implement/thegarment.

The valve 152 can be made of many materials, including, but not limitedto, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or other polymeric materials. The valve152 can be many types of valve configured to receive and release air. Byway of example, the valve 152 can be a one-way check valve with twoports (e.g., a Boston valve) that can facilitate inflation and deflationof the inflatable garment 100.

Alternatively, the valve 152 can be a free-flow valve or non-returnvalve. The opening of the valve 152 can be many sizes and shapes,preferably cooperatively sized/shaped for location on the garment 100,the amount of inflation/deflation necessary, and the particular mannerin which a wearer will inflate/deflate the sections of the garment atparticular locations (mouth, pump or the like).

For example, the size of the opening can be based at least in part onthe size of the inflatable garment 100 and/or the number of valves 152that are incorporated into the inflatable garment 100. Additionally, theopening of the valve 152 can be sized to allow for ease of inflation viaa user's mouth.

Alternatively or in addition to, the opening of the valve 152 can besized to allow for ease of inflation via a pump (e.g., a manual pump orautomatic pump). For example, a hand pump or automatic pump can be usedin connection with the valve 152 to facilitate inflation of theinflatable garment 100.

Alternatively or in addition to, an air cannister can be used inconnection with the valve 152 to facilitate inflation of the inflatablegarment 100. This cannister or pump can be incorporated into the garmentso it is accessible for maintenance, repair or replacement later on. Thevalve 152 can be positioned at many locations. Optionally, the valve 152can be positioned at a location that is easily accessible to a user. Forexample, the valve 152 can be positioned on a sleeve 124 of theinflatable garment 100 such that the user can easily raise his arm tohis mouth in order to inflate the inflatable garment 100.

Alternatively or in addition to, the valve 152 can be positionedproximate to the user's head and/or proximate to the user's upper chestsuch that the user can easily inflate the inflatable garment 100 via hismouth.

FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of a portion ofthe inflatable garment 100 in a deflated state. The inflatable garment100 can include a first layer of fabric 162 and a second layer of fabric164 (e.g., the fabric can be two-ply). The first layer of fabric 162 andthe second layer of fabric 164 can be at least partially coupledtogether via a type of attachment means 130, here an adhesive 166 suchthat an air cavity 154 is formed between the first and second layers offabric 162, 164. In the deflated state, the air cavity 154 issubstantially devoid of air or has a minimal amount of air. The adhesivecan be applied such that the adhesive can have many thicknesses.

The first and second layer of fabric 162, 164 can be substantiallywater-impermeable. For example, the first and second layer of fabric162, 164 can be a substantially coated fabric (e.g., a substantiallypolyvinyl chloride or thermoplastic polyurethane coated fabric).

Alternatively, the first and second layer of fabric 162, 164 can becomposed of nylon, polyester, polypropylene, ripstop or other similarmaterial.

The first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 canhave many thicknesses. Optionally, the first and second layers of fabric162, 164 can have the same thickness.

Alternatively, the first layer of fabric 162 can have a differentthickness than the second layer of fabric 164.

Optionally, the inflatable garment 100 can include a heat reflectivelayer 172. The heat reflective layer 172 can include many types ofmaterials configured to reflect heat, including, for example, foil orreflective cloth fabric. The heat reflective layer 172 can be incommunication with the second layer of fabric 164, or in someembodiments, can be the second layer of fabric itself. In oneconfiguration, the heat reflective layer 172 can be the closest layer ofmaterial to the user's body. In such configuration the heat reflectivelayer 172 can reflect body heat, thereby serving as a source ofinsulation for the user.

Alternatively, the inflatable garment 100 can be reversible, such thatthe first layer of fabric 162 can be positioned closest to the user'sbody, and the heat reflective layer 172 can be the outermost layer ofmaterial. In such configuration, the heat reflective layer 172 canprovide limited insulation to the user and can facilitate cooling offthe user.

As further illustrated in FIG. 1C, the valve 152 can be in fluidcommunication with at least one air cavity 154 (e.g., a first air cavity154A as shown in FIG. 1C). Upon directing air into the first air cavity154A in direct fluid communication with the valve 152 whether manuallyvia the user's mouth or via pump or cannister of air, the first aircavity 154A can substantially inflate. Via an opening in a portion ofthe adhesive pattern 166 within the air cavity 154, the air cangradually migrate from the first air cavity 154A to the second aircavity 154B.

Optionally, the inflatable garment 100 can include one or morereflective portions to provide increased safety for a user at night orin areas of low visibility. For example, one or more patches ofreflective material can be coupled to the inflatable garment 100 orotherwise incorporated into the inflatable garment 100. Such reflectivematerial can be positioned at many locations on the inflatable garment100, including, without limitation, on the backside of the inflatablejacket, on the hood, and/or on the sleeves 124.

Optionally, technology devices, including, but not limited to,thermochromic materials, thermochromic dyes, LED lights, and the like,can be incorporated into the inflatable garment 100. For example, aportion of the inflatable garment 100 can include a coating ofthermochromic dyes and/or an LED light can be attached to a portion ofthe inflatable garment 100. Heat sensitive materials includingthermochromic materials and thermochromic dyes can be configured toalert the user of extreme temperatures (e.g., when the temperature isbelow a predetermined temperature or when the temperature is above apredetermined temperature). By alerting the user of such extremetemperature, the user can appropriately react by finding shelter,removing the inflatable garment or other layers of clothes, or by takingother forms of precautions.

Alternatively or in addition to, the technology devices can beconfigured to alert the user when the temperature meets or exceed apredetermined temperature in which the adhesive strength of the adhesiveused to couple together the two layers of fabric as further discussedherein may be affected. Electrical components, conductive threads orsimilar hardware can be imbedded within or secured on the seams orcavities through dedicated adhesive patterns or with fasteners.

Optionally, the inflatable garment 100 can further include variousembellishments for aesthetic purposes.

FIG. 2A illustrates a front view of the inflatable garment 100 in aninflated state, and FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of theinflatable garment 100 in the inflated state. As illustrated in FIGS. 2Aand 2B, the inflatable garment 100 can include a plurality of aircavities 154 in an inflated state. In the inflated state, thepredetermined pattern of the air cavities 154 can become more prominent,as the shape of each air cavity can take form as air is directed intothe plurality of air cavities 154. These can make way for aesthetic orfunctional embellishments to the implement.

FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-section view of a portion of the inflatablegarment 100 in the inflated state. As shown in FIGS. 2A through 2C, theinflatable garment 100 can include a plurality of air cavities 154. Atleast one air cavity 154 can be in fluid communication with a valve 152that is incorporated on or within the first layer of fabric 162. Whenthe air cavity 154 receives air whether by blowing air or using manualor automatic pump 152, the air cavity 154 can gradually inflate.

For representative purposes, the air cavity that is in direct, fluidcommunication with the valve is referred to herein as the first aircavity. However, it is noted that if the inflatable garment 100 includesmultiple valves, there would also be multiple air cavities that are indirect communication with a respective valve. As the first air cavityinflates, air can gradually migrate from the first air cavity to the aircavities in fluid communication with such first air cavity. As airmigrates from the first air cavity to the second air cavity, the aircavities can expand in size and shape to create a “puffer”configuration.

FIGS. 3A through 3D illustrate various patterns of air cavities 154.Many desired shapes and/or patterns of air cavities 154 can be createdvia the use of adhesive. In order to create the shape and/or pattern ofair cavities 154, adhesive is applied in the desired shape and/orpattern. Small gaps in the adhesive pattern are used to create thechannels for air to migrate from one air cavity to those air cavities influid communication. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, adhesivecan be applied to one or both of the first and second layers of fabric162, 164 in a vertical, rectangular pattern. Accordingly, the first andsecond layers of fabric 162, 164 can be affixed together at all portionswhere adhesive is applied. As such, in the open areas where adhesive isnot applied, air cavities configured to receive a target volume of aircan be formed. The gaps in adhesive at the tops and bottoms of eachrectangle can provide the channels for air to migrate from one aircavity 154 to another air cavity 154.

Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, adhesive can be applied to one orboth of the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 in a horizontal,rectangular pattern.

Further, FIGS. 3C and 3D illustrates an alternative pattern of the aircavities created via applying adhesive in a zig zag configuration and awave-like configuration, respectively.

Although FIGS. 3A through 3D illustrate example patterns of air cavities154, it is contemplated that the air cavities can have many shapes andcan be arranged in many patterns.

FIG. 4 illustrates a user wearing the inflatable garment 100 andsimultaneously inflating the inflatable garment 100 via the valve 152.As illustrated in FIG. 4, the valve 152 can be positioned proximate tothe user's head. For example, the valve 152 can be positioned on orproximate the collar 128 of the hood 126 of the inflatable garment 100such that the user can easily access the valve 152 to inflate.

A user can inflate the inflatable garment 100 to a target volume viablowing air into the opening of the valve using their mouth.Alternatively, or in addition to, the user can inflate the inflatablegarment 100 to the target volume via a manual or automatic pump or acannister of air. The target volume can be based on the user'spreferences.

Alternatively or in addition to, the target volume can be based on anambient temperature, as the air within the air cavities 154 can providean insulating effect. For example, if the user is outside in a lowtemperature environment, the user can inflate the inflatable garment 100to a target volume that is greater than if the user is outside in amoderate temperature environment. Once the user inflates the inflatablegarment 100 to the desired target volume, the user can close the valve152 such that the target volume is maintained.

In another embodiment, the user can selectively inflate portions of thegarment or allow sensors and actuators to automatically to do so. Thatis, inflation of the garment can be “automatic”—through the use ofsensors and actuators, forming a “smart” garment.

The user can additionally deflate the inflatable garment 100 based atleast in part of the user's preferences or an ambient temperature. Forexample, if the user determines they do not need and/or desire theinsulation provided by the inflatable garment 100 when in the inflatedstate or if the user determines less insulation is needed and/ordesired, the user can deflate the inflatable garment 100. The user canopen the valve 152 to allow the air stored within the air cavities 154to be released. Optionally, the user can release only a portion of theair stored in the air cavities 154. Alternatively, the user can releasesubstantially all of the air stored in the air cavities 154.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example use of the inflatable garment 100. Asdiscussed herein, the inflatable garment 100 can be used as a piece ofclothing (e.g., a coat) and can be inflated to a target volume of airbased on the user's preferences and/or need for insulation. However,such use of the inflatable garment 100 shall not be construed aslimiting. For example, the inflatable garment 100 can further be used asa comfortable, insulating material upon which a user can lie. Asillustrated in FIG. 5, a user may inflate the inflatable garment 100 toa target volume via the valve using methods as previously describedherein. The user can subsequently open the inflatable garment 100 suchthat the interior of the inflatable garment 100 forms a cavity for theuser to lie within. Optionally, the user can detach the collar 128and/or the hood 126 and use such collar 128 and/or hood 126 as a pillow.Optionally, the collar 128 and/or hood 126 can include one or more aircavities that are not in fluid communication with the air cavities 154of the other portions of the inflatable garment 100. In suchconfiguration, the collar 128 and/or hood 126 can each have a valve 152incorporated into the first layer of fabric of the collar 128 and thehood 126, respectively. Once the collar 128 and/or hood 126 is detachedfrom the inflatable garment, the user can inflate the collar 128 and/orhood 126 individually via the valve incorporated with the collar 128and/or hood 126, respectively, to a target volume of air. The targetvolume of air can be based upon a desired volume of air such that thecollar and/or hood can appropriately be used by the user as a pillow.

FIG. 6 outlines an exemplary method 600 of manufacturing the inflatablegarment 100. The method 600 can include providing 602 a sheet of fabrichaving a first layer and a second layer. As previously discussed herein,the sheet of fabric can be substantially water-impermeable and can bemade of various materials including, but not limited to, nylon,polyester, polypropylene, ripstop or other similar material. Optionally,the sheet of fabric can be coated with TPU and/or PVC.

The method 600 can include cutting 604 the sheet of fabric into aplurality of portions based at least in part on an intended use of theinflatable garment 100 (e.g., as a coat, sock, undergarment, or thelike). For example, when the inflatable garment 100 is intended to beused as a coat, the sheet of fabric can be cut into a front portion, aback portion, a first sleeve portion, a second sleeve portion, a collarportion, and a hood portion. Optionally, a stencil can be used tofacilitate cutting the sheet of fabric into the plurality of portions.An opening can further be cut in the first layer of fabric 162 in aselected portion (e.g., a sleeve portion) for the placement of eachvalve 152. The size of the opening can be based upon the size of thevalve 152. One having ordinary skill in the art would understand how tocut the sheet of fabric into multiple portions based on the intended useand the necessary sizing of the ultimately manufactured inflatablegarment 100.

The method 600 can include applying 606 adhesive in a predeterminedpattern to at least one of the first layer of fabric 162 and the secondlayer of fabric 164 of each portion of the plurality of portions.Optionally, adhesive can be applied to both the first and second layerof fabric 162, 164. If adhesive is applied to both the first and secondlayer of fabric 162, 164, the adhesive can be applied such that thepredetermined pattern of the adhesive on one layer of the fabric ismirrored, and hence overlapped, on the other layer of fabric.

The method 600 can include joining 608 the first layer of fabric 162 andthe second layer of fabric 164 such that the first and second layers offabric 162, 164 can be coupled together (e.g., bonded) where theadhesive has been applied. Optionally, various physical and/or chemicaltechniques can be applied to couple the first and second layers offabric 162, 164 together. For example, heat pressing can be used tocouple the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 together.Alternatively, the implement could be additively built instead of seamedor sewn together through 3D printing and similar technologies.

The borders of each portion can be further heat activated/bonded toensure the first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164are joined together and create the plurality of air cavities 154. Thisapplication on the borders will differ depending on the type of materialused in making the garment, and the method of adhesion used.

The method 600 can include affixing 610 the valve 152 to the first layerof fabric 120. Optionally, a water-impermeable coating/sealant can beapplied to the exterior surface of the valve and excess fabric thatsurrounds the valve 152. Optionally, a manual and/or automatic pump canadditionally be affixed to the first layer of fabric 162.

The method 600 can include sewing 612 the plurality of portions to formthe inflatable garment 100.

Optionally, the method 600 can further include sewing the heatreflective layer to the second layer of fabric 164. Accordingly, in oneconfiguration, the heat reflective layer can be the innermost layer thatis closest to the user's body. In such an embodiment, wherein the heatreflective layer is one of the first/second layers of the fabric, it ispreferably mostly water-impermeable. Alternatively, the inflatablegarment can be reversed such that the heat reflective layer is theoutermost layer that is exposed to the exterior environment.

Although FIG. 6 indicates on example method of manufacturing theinflatable garment 100, it is contemplated a variety of manufacturingmethods can be used. For example, instead of applying adhesive to atleast one layer of fabric and subsequently joining the first layer offabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 such that the first andsecond layers of fabric 162, 164 are coupled together, a sheet of fabricthat is substantially or entirely pre-coated with adhesive can be used.In that case, a non-stick sheet, Teflon®-coated sheet or other similarmaterial can be placed between both coated fabrics to create the patternfor adhesion. Such sheet can be cut in (a negative of) the predeterminedpattern of adhesive.

While the present disclosure has been described in connection with aplurality of example aspects, as illustrated in the various figures anddiscussed above, it is understood that other similar aspects can beused, or modifications and additions can be made to the describedsubject matter for performing the same function of the presentdisclosure without deviating therefrom. In this disclosure, methods andcompositions were described according to aspects of the presentlydisclosed subject matter. But other equivalent methods or compositionsto these described aspects are also contemplated by the teachingsherein. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be limited to anysingle aspect, but rather construed in breadth and scope in accordancewith the appended claims. Moreover, various aspects of the disclosedtechnology have been described herein as relating to methods, systems,mechanism, mechanisms, and/or non-transitory, computer-readable mediumstoring instructions. However, it is to be understood that the disclosedtechnology is not necessarily limited to the examples and embodimentsexpressly described herein. That is, certain aspects of a describedsystem can be included in the methods described herein, aspects of adescribed mechanism or system can be included in another mechanism orsystem, various aspects of a described method can be included in asystem described herein, and the like.

What is claimed is:
 1. A garment comprising: a first material; a secondmaterial; and a valve; wherein the first material and the secondmaterial are cooperatively configured such that at least a portion ofthe first material is coupled to at least a portion of the secondmaterial at one or more locations; wherein the one or more locations ofcoupling form cavities between the first material and the secondmaterial, the cavities configured for inflation and deflation of media;and wherein the valve is in media communication with at least one of thecavities and is configured to inflate or deflate at least a portion ofthe cavities to a target volume.
 2. The garment of claim 1, wherein: thefirst material is a first layer of a fabric; the second material is asecond layer of the fabric; the first layer of fabric and the secondlayer of fabric are coupled at locations via the application of anadhesive to one or both of the first layer and the second layer, whichlocations are adhesively coupled; and the media is air.
 3. The garmentof claim 2, wherein at least one of the first layer of fabric and thesecond layer of fabric is substantially fluid-impermeable.
 4. Thegarment of claim 2 further comprising a heat reflective layer in thermalcommunication with the second layer of fabric.
 5. The garment of claim2, wherein the cavities are arranged in a predetermined pattern formedby locations in which the adhesive is applied between the first and thesecond layers.
 6. The garment of claim 5, wherein the predeterminedpattern corresponds to the cavities having a substantially rectangularshape.
 7. The garment of claim 1, wherein the target volume is based atleast in part on an ambient temperature.
 8. The garment of claim 1,wherein the garment is a jacket.
 9. The garment of claim 1, wherein thevalve is configured for manual inflation of the media therethrough. 10.The garment of claim 9, wherein the valve is positioned in a locationaccessible to the user.
 11. The garment of claim 2, wherein the firstlayer of fabric and the second layer of fabric are coupled together toform a main body and two arm sleeves.
 12. The garment of claim 1,wherein the valve is configured for inflation of the media therethrough;and wherein the media is not supplied by the user.
 13. A method ofmanufacturing an inflatable garment comprising: forming a plurality ofinflatable portions from a first layer of a fabric and a second layer ofthe fabric; providing an inflation means to at least one of theinflatable portions; and assembling the plurality of inflatable portionsinto an inflatable garment.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein formingthe plurality of inflatable portions comprises: cutting a sheet of thefabric into the plurality of portions based at least in part on anintended use of the inflatable garment; applying adhesive in apredetermined pattern on at least one of the first layer of fabric andthe second layer of fabric of the plurality of portions; and joining thefirst layer of fabric to the second layer of fabric to form theplurality of inflatable portions.
 15. The method of claim 14, whereinassembling the plurality of inflatable portions into an inflatablegarment comprises sewing together the plurality of inflatable portions.16. The method of claim 15 further comprising cutting an opening intothe first layer of fabric, the opening being sized to receive theinflation means comprising a valve.
 17. The method of claim 16 furthercomprising uniting one or more borders of the first layer of fabric andthe second layer of fabric.
 18. An inflatable garment produced by aprocess comprising: providing a sheet of fabric having a first layer anda second layer; cutting the sheet of fabric into a plurality of portionsbased at least in part on an intended use of the inflatable garment;applying adhesive in a predetermined pattern on at least one of thefirst layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric of each portion ofthe plurality of portions; joining the first layer of fabric to thesecond layer of fabric of each portion of the plurality of portions toform a plurality of air cavities; affixing a valve to the first layer offabric on at least one portion of the plurality of portions; and sewingtogether the plurality of portions.